A breakfast for local clergy and an Appreciation Service for Pastor Byron L. and First Lady Jill Smith will be presented this weekend at Curry Temple C.M.E. Church, 322 West Rosecrans Avenue in Compton.

“We invite all pastors and lay leaders in the greater Los Angeles area to attend this networking breakfast and health forum on Saturday, August 6, at 7:30 a.m. Assemblyman Isadore Hall will share information on accessing resources to help your church and surrounding community,” said Rev. Smith.

“Also, we will have details on getting your church involved with the ‘Let’s Move Campaign’ sponsored by First Lady Michelle Obama,” he said.

On Sunday, August 7, at 3:30 p.m., Curry Temple members will salute Pastor and Lady Smith during an Appreciation Celebration Service of Worship.

“We are continuing to glorify God as we honor His servant and our pastor, Rev. Smith. Our theme is ‘Our Pastor – Going Against the Odds…Our Pastor – Fighting Against the Odds…Our Pastor – Winning Against the Odds,” said Mrs. Lillianita Brumfield, program chairperson.

The Rev. Dr. W. Jerome Fisher, pastor emeritus of Greater Zion Church Family, will be the keynote speaker. Also, the Mattye White Choir, Curry Temple Mass Choir, and other guest artists will provide the music.

Pastor Smith was appointed to Curry Temple in August 2010 and since then, he has focused on youth and young adult programs, community outreach ministries and civic involvement in Compton. Earlier this year, he led the members in installing a new sign in front of the church.

Dr. Fisher, a dynamic orator and influential community activist, served 50 years as pastor of the former Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Compton. Under his leadership, the congregation increased from 13 to more than 5,000 members. Also, he has conducted national evangelistic crusades as well as ministered in several foreign countries.